Joining a health club

The Fixer's mailbag contains more than a few complaints from readers who joined a gym with the best intentions of getting in shape, paid their membership in advance - then showed up one day to find the lights off and a lock on the door.

Other readers have said they didn't like what they joined and wanted out of their contract -- or found that the terms of the contract didn't reflect what the salesman promised.

What's a consumer to do?

Obviously, read the fine print before you sign anything, says Steve Bernas, president and CEO of the local BBB. Also, keep a close eye on your bank statement to make sure the charges are correct.

If you don't want to re-up after your contract is expired, follow the club's instructions EXACTLY when you cancel.

Lots of people have told The Fixer that they thought they had canceled and were surprised when fees continued to be debited from their bank accounts. It's always a good idea to check with family and friends and check the complaint record of any gym you're thinking of joining.

A few more tips on choosing a fitness club, courtesy of the BBB:

-- What are your fitness goals? Having this is in mind will help you pick the best facility for you. Check out several clubs on the days and times you plan to exercise to see if they're clean, staffed and uncrowded.

-- Can you afford the membership fee and the monthly club fees, as well as possible finance charges? -- Walk away if a salesperson pressures you to sign a contract immediately. Take a sample contract home and read it thoroughly before deciding.

-- Make sure you understand the length of the membership term and whether there's an automatic renewal clause. What are your cancellation rights if you move to another area, are injured or if the club closes or is taken over by new management? Of course, you always have another option. Be thrifty like The Fixer and use the park district.